Mission in Motion: A Minute With Maxwell

In this episode of Mission in Motion: A Minute with Maxwell, Heather Maxwell sits down with Brian Emmerton, President of Complete Purchasing Services, to explore an often-overlooked side of seniors’ living and healthcare: the purchasing and supply chain professionals who quietly make exceptional care possible.  

Brian shares his journey from a 15-year-old working in a local pharmacy to leading a national group purchasing organization (GPO), and reflects on the leadership practices and cultural foundations that have helped him build a loyal, high-performing team.  

In this episode, you’ll learn:  
  • How GPOs work (and why they’re like Costco for senior living)
  • Why “behind-the-scenes” roles are deeply purpose-driven
  • Brian’s leadership journey and early lessons in empowerment
  • What it takes to build a culture where people stay and thrive
  • Personalized leadership in a multigenerational workforce
  • How growth and career paths look different for everyone
About Maxwell Management Group:

This podcast is brought to you by Maxwell Management Group, a national executive search and education firm specializing in the continuing care and healthcare sectors. For nearly two decades, they’ve partnered with organizations to build values‑driven leadership, vibrant workplace cultures, and purpose‑led employer brands.

Learn more: maxwellmanagementgroup.com

Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Brian
02:18 – First Jobs & Early Lessons in Customer Service
03:21 – From Dietary Aide to President: Career Journey
05:36 – Mentors and Non-Traditional Career Paths
07:03 – What Is a GPO? Costco for Senior Living
09:08 – How Procurement Frees Time for Resident Care
09:53 – Behind the Scenes: Careers in Purchasing & Supply Chain
13:13 – Who Thrives in This Work? Skills & Attributes
14:50 – Global Opportunities and Growth in a Larger Organization
18:26 – Leadership Lessons: Trust, Empowerment & Lifelong Learning
23:23 – Personalized Leadership & Recognition Across Generations
31:58 – Building a High-Performing Culture & Great Team

What is Mission in Motion: A Minute With Maxwell?

Mission in Motion: A Minute with Maxwell is a bold new podcast and a leadership companion for mission-driven organizations and changemakers across the care sector and beyond. Hosted by Heather Maxwell, founder of Maxwell Management Group, each episode delivers transformative insights through candid conversations with renowned leaders, innovators, and trailblazers who are redefining what it means to lead with purpose.

In every short, powerful episode, listeners will uncover “aha” moments in leadership—those pivotal insights that shift perspectives, spark innovation, and drive meaningful change. From navigating people and culture to leading through uncertainty, challenge, and change, the podcast is designed to offer real value to executive leaders, HR professionals, and visionaries who are seeking meaningful conversations and lightbulb moments that both inspire and challenge the status quo.

Whether you're looking for inspiration, strategy, or just a moment to reflect, A Minute with Maxwell - Mission in Motion brings the voices and stories that matter most—amplifying the lessons and leadership breakthroughs that can move your mission forward.